Does Your Auto Insurance Cover Collision Repair Services?

According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 6% of all insured drivers file a claim for collision repair services each year. If you've been in an accident, you may be wondering if your auto insurance will cover the cost of repairs. Here's what you need to know.

What Is Collision Insurance?

Collision insurance is a type of auto insurance that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it's damaged in an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault. Collision insurance is optional in most states, but it may be required by your lender if you have a loan or lease on your vehicle.

What Does Collision Insurance Cover?

Collision insurance typically covers the cost of repairing your vehicle, including parts and labor. It may also cover the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. However, collision insurance does not cover the cost of medical expenses for you or your passengers, or damage to the other driver's vehicle or property. These costs are typically covered by liability insurance.

What Is Comprehensive Insurance?

Comprehensive insurance is another type of optional auto insurance that covers damage to your vehicle that's not caused by a collision. This includes damage from theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and hitting an animal. Like collision insurance, comprehensive insurance may be required by your lender.

Do You Need Collision and Comprehensive Insurance?

Whether or not you need collision and comprehensive insurance depends on your individual circumstances. If you have a new or expensive car, or if you have a loan or lease on your vehicle, it's generally a good idea to have both types of coverage. However, if you have an older car that's not worth much, you may be able to save money by opting out of collision and comprehensive insurance.

What Should You Do If You're in an Accident?

If you're in an accident, the first thing you should do is ensure that everyone is safe and call the police. You should also exchange insurance information with the other driver and take pictures of the damage to both vehicles.

Once you've done that, you should contact your insurance company to file a claim. Your insurance company will then work with a collision repair shop, like City Side Auto Body, to assess the damage and estimate the cost of repairs. If you have collision insurance, your insurance company will typically cover the cost of repairs, minus your deductible.